Located in Read Park, this skate park offers 11,000 square feet of skateboard heaven with obstacles, ramps, rails, ledges, spines and bowls. Built specifically for skateboards and in-line roller skates (sorry, no bikes allowed), the "street course" design mimics skateable features and obstacles found throughout the community. Helmets are required and pads are recommended.

All aboard as a 36-ton, 1912 Heisler steam locomotive pulls three cabooses for a four-mile ride through farmlands. Purchase your ticket at the Silver Creek Depot, a turn-of-the-century replica filled with railroad artifacts, and browse the Freight House Gift Shop and Silvercreek Museum. Weather permitting, there will be fall harvest demonstrations with horses and tractors. The museum will feature sauerkraut and brats. Train: Adults: $7; Children under 12: $3; Cab Rides: Inquire at the Depot; Museum: Adults: $4; Children under 12: Free.

The Stephenson County Antique Engine Club proudly presents this annual event, "The Freeport Show". It offers over 300 antique steam and horse-powered engines, equipment, and gas engines. This year's feature is Allis-Chalmers. There will be a huge parade daily at 1 pm, a large flea market, a large display building offering home antiques, crafts, demonstrations, and farm miniatures, Gasoline Alley featuring The Rawleigh gas engines, sawmill, and blacksmith shop. There will be threshing demonstrations with both steam and gas tractors, and working demonstrations throughout the show grounds. Also, ride the Silver Creek and Stephenson Railroad antique steam train. Great food is offered. Don't miss the Farmer's Hitch Class, Horse Pull or the Midwest Championship Antique Tractor Pull.

Enjoy one of the newly renovated comfy rooms with all new Cloud 9 beds and the little touches such as wireless Internet in all rooms, heated outdoor pool, complimentary passes to Gold's Gym with an indoor pool, fresh baked cookies and a House Hot Deluxe breakfast. Meeting facilities to accommodate groups of up to 100 are also available. This hotel is conveniently located a tenth of a mile from Six Flags Great American/Hurricane Harbor Waterpark and down the street from Gurnee Mills. Tour the Jelly Belly Center, play golf, see a sailor graduate from Navy Boot Camp or visit the Volo Auto Museum all within minutes away. So when you're ready to give yourself a break, head our way and discover the Hampton Inn hotel in Chicago/Gurnee.

We currently manage 25,268 acres of land and offer innovative educational, recreational and cultural opportunities for all ages. Visitors enjoy nearly 112 miles of trail for a variety of outdoor recreation uses, fishing ponds and lakes, public access to the Fox River, award-winning nature and history education programs and events, and three public golf courses. Facilities of special interest include Independence Grove near Libertyville, Ryerson Conservation Area near Deerfield, Lake County Discovery Museum near Wauconda, Greenbelt Cultural Center near Waukegan, and three golf courses (Brae Loch near Grayslake, Countryside near Mundelein, and ThunderHawk near Beach Park). Most Forest Preserves are open from 6:30 a.m. to sunset, every day of the year. Special hours apply at the golf courses, Discovery Museum, Greenbelt Cultural Center and Ryerson Woods.

The newly renovated Bowen park's theme for their new playground is "Forest Findings". The overall layout offers tiered play areas arranged on the northwest hillside of Bowen Park. Fun and learning will go hand-in-hand as children and their families enjoy modern playground amenities, combined with several environmental learning stations that represent a forest ecosystem. Parents and kids alike will also enjoy the six-station fitness/exercise trail located on the perimeter of the playground.

Lake Vermilion County Park includes a boat ramp, dock complex, concession building, playground, and an open shelter. The park is open year round and considered 'high-use' during summer weekends with power boating (unlimited HP), jet skiing, water skiing, and fishing tournaments. Wildlife observation includes herons, river otters, and eagles. Lake Vermilion, 1,000 acres in size, is one of Illinois' most heavily stocked fishing lakes with bass, tiger muskies, catfish, crappie, and walleye being frequently fished.

Museum that houses over 70 vintage furnished doll houses from the 1920’s- to current. The architectural designs and fashions depict and present the evolution of homes and furnishings from then to now. The Then and Now gift shop is complete with collectable doll house furnishings for sale. Children enjoy playing the scavenger hunt and viewing the 1949 “Disney House” and the 1924 Tootsie Toy house furnished with Tootsie toy pieces. Located inside Taylor’s Furniture Store, along the square in Quincy’s downtown business district.

The 38th annual celebration of railroad history in downtown Galesburg. This event returns to Main Street. It marks the 160th year of the Railroad in Galesburg. Come by auto via I-74 or by rail via Amtrak. Galesburg is the gateway to the west and leading Amtrak Depot on the corridor to Quincy.

Stang Arts Studio & Gallery features art classes for both children and adults, along with holding various events throughout the year. The artist, Jamie Stang, also specializes in "paint parties." These parties are great for a group, as they feature great food, drinks, music and art. Jamie helps visitors discover their inner-artist while relaxing in a chic studio-style atmosphere. Check out her gallery while you're there too.

Held the first Saturday of every month, this farmers market and flea market features crafts, antiques, furniture, household items, baby furniture, produce, collectibles, art, food booths, and live entertainment!

Quincy’s spring event opener includes a parade, an annual tradition held the first weekend in May when traditionally the dogwood trees that line Maine street are in their glory. The parade travels from 24th to 4th & Maine beginning at 9:30am Saturday. Washington Park brings vendors, contests for children and carnival rides both Saturday and Sunday.

Set atop Water Tower Place, above prestigious North Michigan Avenue, this property is just an elevator ride from over 100 shops & boutiques and offers exceptional Lake Michigan and skyline views from each spacious guestroom. Recently opened, The dec Rooftop Bar provides a new and chic outdoor spot for sipping, savoring and socializing. Casual elegance and brasserie-inspired cuisine come together at deca RESTAURANT + BAR, serving inventive fare from morning to night. Enjoy easy access to such famed attractions as The Magnificent Mile, The Museum of Contemporary Art and The John Hancock Observatory or stay in and request an in-room visit from the popular Candy Man.

This soccer facility has 10 fields for grades K-12. 4 Fields are large enough for adult games. Bleacher seating available on the 6 larger fields and seats approximately 40 per team. There are 2 large picnic shelters, playground equipment and a concession stand. Parking for 400 is available.

Looking for a relaxing vacation destination? Look no further! This beautiful family and pet-friendly loft features hardwood floors, vaulted ceiling, two bedrooms, open gathering area with full kitchen, dining area, large living area, washer and dryer, front and rear balconies with a BBQ grill and can accommodate up to 8 people! After all...who wouldn't want to stay on top of an ice cream shop?

Discovery Depot Children's Museum is a non-profit institution providing fun and educational programs for children and families. Interactive exhibits, programs, and collections will stimulate curiosity, promote discovery and encourage learning. Creative playground facilities outside for children too. Through these resources, visitors will gain a better understanding of our world.

Little Grassy Lake Campground and Marina is located on Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge and is a destination stop for returning campers, boaters, and sportsmen. They offer full service camping, primitive camping, boat rentals, concessions, and a bait shop. Reservations accepted to reserve boats and campsites. Pontoon boats, fishing boats, and kayaks can be rented. You don't want to pass up the opportunities to explore the thirty miles of shoreline and embrace the solitude you will find on the lake. The 1200 acre lake is stocked with catfish, crappie, and bass, and offers plentiful oppourtunities for fishing, paddling, boating, and wildlife observation. Amenities include waterfront camping sites, remodeled bathrooms with hot showers, dump station, swimming, pets allowed, monthly educational programs and a renovated concession/bait shop which is stocked with minnows, crickets, camping supplies, cold beverages, food items, ice cream, firewood and ice.

Learn all about the morel in the heart of prime & proven morel habitat. Participate in the hunt, see cooking demonstrations, exchange recipes, come to buy or sell in the mushroom auction, and enter your best morel dish in the morel cook-off. Fun for the whole family, and trophies in many categories.

Arts Connection of Central Illinois has been established for the citizens of Effingham County and beyond to showcase arts and entertainment, to encourage interaction with and appreciation of live performance, to endorse the educational process and to enhance the quality of life and cultural vitality of the region.

Sponsored by Jacksonville Rotary Club at the Morgan County Fairgrounds. Come out for children and adult games, weenier dog race, wine and beer tasting, washers tournament, entertainment by The Waterloo German Band and The Heidelberg German Band as they perform music in the tradition of the German Beer Hall playing polkas, waltzes and big band music from the 1920's to 1980's pop music. DJ music will play through the rest of the day.

The Science Center of Southern Illinois is the perfect way for kids to explore the beauty of science in a fun atmosphere. This hands-on children's museum has over 50 exhibits and sees nearly 15,000 annual visitors. Adults are also welcome, as many of the activities can be enjoyed by all.

The Vermilion County Museum was built as a replica of the 1833 county courthouse where President Abraham Lincoln practiced law from 1841-1859. Exhibits include the Lincoln Law Office in Danville, a schoolhouse, coal mine shaft and more.

Laser Quest is a family entertainment venue combining the classic games of hide-and-seek and tag with a high tech twist. Our multi-level arenas have specialty lighting, swirling fog and energetic music to add to the excitement for up to 30 or more players in each game.

We would be lying if we didn't say that Saluki Stadium is one of the best college stadiums in the Midwest. Constructed in 2010, this facility is home to the NCAA Division One SIU Football Team and can seat up to 15,000 fans. Enjoy the afternoon with sports, tailgating and more at the Saluki Stadium.

A unique park for children ages two to nine years. Pirates' ship, paddle boats, train ride, climbing wall, and many more creative attractions for children. Concession and picnic areas. Birthday parties and rentals. Open daily June through August. Admission fee for children. Adults are always free.

Enjoy the perfect ending to the summer and visit the World’s largest outdoor pork barbeque held on the streets of Kewanee. Events include a parade, carnival, concessions, craft show, three-day flea market, live entertainment stages. Open 7 am to 10 pm. Bringing home the chops since 1941.

"The Popcorn Shop" was opened in 1934 by John Baldwin. In 1945, Mr. Baldwin leased his business to Del and Emily Barnett. A year later the Barnett's purchased The Popcorn Shop and changed the name to "Del's Popcorn Shop". Lou Ann Jacobs purchased the Decatur business in 1978 and has added her own flare and expertise to the business taking it way beyond what anyone could have imagined. Del's always has a large variety of tempting treats, most of which can be found and ordered right here online. A package from Del's Popcorn Shop is always sure to put a smile on every face.

WhirlyBall is a combination of basketball, hockey, lacrosse and bumper cars all rolled into one exciting sport. The Lake County location also includes a two-level laser tag arena, climbing wall, video games, pool tables and a sports bar. A second suburban outpost is located in Lombard.

Bike rentals through the Quad Cities Convention & Visitors Bureau are available at their Visitor Center located at 1601 River Drive, Suite 110 in Moline. Bikes are available in a variety of sizes and come with locks and helmets. They also offer Kiddie Trailers to hook on the back of adult bikes for toddlers and small bikes that can be attached to the adult bike for children still needing training wheels. Rentals are available from Memorial Day through October. Rent by the day or by the hour.

Known as C2E2, this convention spans the latest and greatest from the worlds of comics, movies, television, toys, anime, manga and video games. Bringing the best of popular culture to downtown Chicago, C2E2’s show floor is packed with hundreds of exhibitors, panels and autograph sessions giving fans a chance to interact with their favorite creators, and screening rooms featuring sneak peeks at films and television shows months before they hit either the big or small screen!

A historic tradition lives on at the Elmhurst Park District Conservatory and greenhouses, located in Wilder Park. The conservatory holds four main plant displays a year: a Easter and Calla Lilies in the spring, Chrysanthemums in the fall, Poinsettias in December and an Environmental show with various themes in the Winter. In addition youth education programs are offered with our in house Horticulturist.

The 1840s Lamon House is believed to be the oldest framed residence in the Danville Area. The home was constructed by Joseph Lamon, cousin of Ward Hill Lamon, President Abraham Lincoln's law partner and presidential bodyguard. The Lamon House is open Sundays, 1:30 - 4:30 PM, throughout the summer and by appointment.

The lights dim as you explore the rituals of ancient Egyptian culture, guided by the light of your flashlight. Next, you prowl an African savannah with giraffes, hippos, and man-eating lions. Take a break by playing games from around the world or touching giant bugs from right in your backyard. Cap your night of exploration and adventure with cozy bedtime stories, before drifting off to dreamland in one of the amazing exhibits. Bring your family and friends for a night at the museum you’ll never forget!

The Homer Soda Festival is genuine and unique. We bring together family owned bottlers from all across the country to one place where you can enjoy their family traditions of flavor and fizz. We create an environment where you can not only taste the unique sodas, but meet many of the actual bottlers themselves. The food is high quality and unique, the vendors are all hand crafted, genuine artistic creations, reclaimed relics, and antiques. The music is Americana bluegrass/roots that has stood the test of time much like the bottlers. Everything works to bring generations together to make memories with each other and take them all back to the Main Street USA of yesteryear.

Situated in resort-like setting, the Holiday Inn is minutes from the historic Downtown Crystal Lake Main Street filled with shopes and restaurants for every taste. McHenry County's premier conference facility.

The Christmas lighted parade steps off at 5:30pm and will showcase Santa & Mrs. Claus through downtown Arthur. Immediately following the parade, Santa will visit with children and parents in Knights Court downtown to start collecting those early Christmas requests. Complimentary hot chocolate and cookies will be served during his visit. Throughout the day, businesses in the downtown area as well as the countryside will feature early Christmas bargains and host Open Houses.

Nestled along Indian Creek is a natural artesian well where thousands of gallons of pure water flow each day - as it has since 1927. A ten foot water wheel is turned continually by the flowing water. The site, which is accessed by Stephenson County's only covered bridge, includes a waterfall, large flower beds and gazebo to enjoy while sipping the bubbling water. Open: 7 am - 8 pm.

This replica of Chicago's historic Wrigley Field is complete with ivy, bricks, box seats, dirt and sod from the real Wrigley Field, plus a replica scoreborad and entry sign. It is open for exploring at no cost or is available for rental for birthday parties, picnics, corporate events and more. Rental fees are $45 per hour or $90 for two hours.Reservations may be made at our website.

Come out and enjoy 5 days of fun at the 87th Annual Lake County Fair. Events at the fair include live entertainment, food vendors, carnival rides and games, live animals, motor crossing, banana derby, demolition derby, flower show, expo hall and so much more. Please visit the website for updated information.

Held at Monticello Railway Museum. Read along with the story as the train makes its round-trip journey to the North Pole. Meet Santa and enjoy caroling, hot chocolate, surprises and a treat. And, for those who believe, a special gift for each child. Children are encouraged to wear their pajamas! Nov 14, Nov 20-21, Nov 27-29 & Dec 4-5. Reservations required. Tickets go on sale June 6th.

The Fun Center consists of a 43,000 sq. ft. Entertainment Facility containing over 150 redemption and arcade games, a Redemption Area with over 1,000 items from which to choose, Rocky's Pizzeria, a food court, Hershey's® Ice Cream Shoppe, a main party area with a 12 ft. movie screen that can host multiple parties or field trips, three private party rooms for birthdays, showers, meetings or any occasion and Rocky's Fun House Miniature Golf. This is an indoor 18-hole, glow-in-the-dark miniature golf course with a combination fun house, circus, and midway theme. The arcade area also has Animaland, where children and adults alike can stuff and make a unique furry friend. Packages available for birthday parties, field trips and other special events. Visit the website for monthly specials and weekly specials.

Libertyville's Sports Complex offers something for everyone in the family. A 360° climbing mountain for rock climbing, a 40 tee automated heated driving range for year round practice and a fitness center offering group exercise classes, life fitness with cardio and hammer strength equipment, personnel trainers, a free weight room, ¼ mile running/walking track and a kids club. It also offers an open gym for indoor soccer, basketball, youth sports and training sessions. There is also 3,503 sq. ft. of meeting rooms suited for events from small family gatherings to corporate events and trade shows.

Hot Wheels Skatium, a new state of the art skating rink, is located by the former Ike Auto Park location outside of Carbondale. We offer skating for those of all ages; skates for rent are available from a child's size 8 to an adult's size 15. We have numerous fun-filled family nights, and we can also accommodate your birthday parties or private parties.

Redmoon Theatre was founded in 1989 in the Logan Square neighborhood of Chicago. Redmoon has won national acclaim as the country's leading creator of spectacle theatre -- a highly visual and inventive theatre style that embraces the act of transformation through pageantry, puppetry, contraption-type mechanical objects, robust physical movement, and surprising use of scale and special effects. Using this unique visual language, Redmoon transforms streets and stages into places of public celebration, capable of speaking across cultural, ethnic, and generational boundaries.

For model railroad aficionados -- and everyone else who ever enjoyed model trains -- this model railroad is something to see. The Fever River Railroad is a 120X24-foot HO scale model of a hypothetical railroad running from Duluth, Minnesota to St. Louis, Missouri. This fully operational model railroad has detailed scenery, rail yards, factories, and interchanges with many other railroads. The model railroad allows for the operation of multiple trains along railroad right-of-way that portrays typical towns along the Duluth to St. Louis route. The Fever River Railroad is an ongoing project with upgrades to the layout and scenery that provides an exciting model railroad experience. A collection of railroad memorabilia and pictures, many from the surrounding area, are on display throughout the facility. The Stephenson Society of Model Trainmen, who operate the railroad, host an open house twice a year, and visitors are welcome at other times by appointment.

This 810 acre lake with a maximum depth of 90 feet and a 24-mile shoreline is part of the Crab Orchard Refuge. It is stocked with rainbow and brown trout and provides largemouth bass, bluegill, sunfish, crappie, channel catfish, bullheads, and carp. Boat ramps are available. Boats have a 10-horsepower limit. Camping is available.

Make plans to attend Northern Illinois' largest Civil War reenactment. The Lake County Discovery Museum is proud to present the 23rd annual Civil War Days encampment. The event features infantry, cavalry and artillery re-enactors, as well as musicians, sutlers, medical personnel and civilians. A large-scale battle reenactment, ongoing drills, kids' activities, and Civil War era shopping are available both days.

The Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites in Bloomington features a contemporary setting, a fresh, modern appearance and a convenient location near the Central Illinois Regional Airport (CIRA). The hotel offers the very best in accommodations and guests can enjoy complimentary shuttle services, over 5,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, a 24-hour business center and free high-speed, wired and wireless Internet access, indoor pool and whirlpool, a 24-hour fitness center, convenience store, Baxter's American Grill, game room and on-site laundry.

8 Miles of Ag-tiques begins on Highway 26 north of Orangeville. Each stop will feature different tractors including John Deere, Massey Harris, International Harvester, Oliver, Minneapolis-Moline, Allis Chalmers, and other old machinery from the Good Old Days. There will be food, craft shows, tractor drives on Saturday.

Enjoy 22 varieties of pick-your-own and pre-picked apples from August through October, breakfast or lunch in the Country Restaurant, a miniature train ride, carousel, petting zoo, gift shop and bakery, and seasonal events that include Applefest and Pumpkinfest.

Joe's Pizza and Pasta is a hometown favorite serving fine Italian dishes including pizza, pasta, submarine sandwiches, desserts and more. Recently renovated, Joe's makes the perfect place for lunch or dinner with the availability of large party reservations and delivery service.

Jacoby Arts Center is dedicated to creating opportunities for individual artists in their pursuit of artistic excellence and economic success. The stunning gallery presents works of regional and national artists and the retail shop, known as The Artist Shop, showcases items in a variety of media while providing artists a retail outlet to their audiences.

This 56,000-square-foot upscale bowling and entertainment center, offers a comfortable and lively atmosphere to enjoy the company of good friends. 32 lanes feature upgraded bowling equipment and plush sofa seating that encourages socialization and connection. A laser tag arena and arcade with multi-player games that are good for the competitive spirit. Food & beverage service is available laneside or in the in-house restaurant, Tavern ’45, featuring distinctive American pub fare, local craft beer and an outdoor patio.

Museum celebrating the shared histories of Galesburg and the railroad. Tour a real steam locomotive. See the authentic railroad memorabilia. Great for kids and rail fans! Right next door to the Amtrak Depot.

This is a 3 day extravaganza of wild entertainment such as Local H, Puddle of MUDD on Thursday, Salt-n-Pepa and Vanilla Ice on Friday. As well as RaeLynn, Josh Thompson and Aaron Tippin on Saturday. But lets not forget, included in this event will be a carnival car, truck & motorcycle show, BBQ competition, bean bag competition and much more!

Marketplace Shopping Center offers all of the big names from larger cities, but without the long wait lines! Shop everything from the Gap, Limited, and Banana Republic, to Sephora, Finish Line and Eddie Baur. Complete with four anchor department stores, this shopping center also offers a varied food court, multiple restaurants, and even a carousel for the little ones.

Pekara Bakery & Bistro is a clean label artisan bakery in downtown Champaign serving the community since 2005. Pekara prides itself on delicious handmade pastries, cakes, and breads in which all-natural ingredients are used. From omelettes made from local, organic eggs, breakfast sandwiches and bagels, savory sandwiches on artisan breads, salads, crêpes, and hearty soups, to sweet pastries, pies, and cookies, you can find most anything you'd like at Pekara. Pekara's well-trained baristas serve up superb coffee that has been responsibly sourced and harvested from Abakundakawa, the certified Fair Trade cooperative in Rwanda where the heart of our house blend is grown. Pekara Bakery & Bistro even helps you stay ahead for that special event, baking pastries, baklava, breads and other treats for those special occasions.